The firethorn (Pyracantha) opens in May and June with delicate, creamy white flowers that grow in dense umbrella panicles. You can find out in this guide whether these are a good source of food for bees and insects.
Is firethorn bee-friendly?
As soon as the white flowers open, they are visited by numerousbeesand other insects. The firethorn is atraditional plantofmedium value and provides the animals with a relatively large amount of nectar and pollen.
Why is firethorn so valuable for bees?
The firethorn makes up for the not-so-good nectar andpollen value of 2with itscountless individual flowers, which are rich for the bees provide a laid table. They don't have to travel long distances to look for food and therefore save energy.
When visiting the flowers of the firethorn, the bees suck up the nectar with their proboscis. They also collect pollen, which they use to make bee bread in the hive to raise their offspring.
What ecological significance does the firethorn have?
- The firethorn is a very good decorative plant that provides food for numerousinsects.
- In addition, the ornamental shrub adorns itself in autumn with spherical, yellow or red coloredfruits. After the first frost, they lose their unpleasant acidity and are then often eaten bybirds.
Tip
Plant diversity for bees
In the wild, bees often no longer find enough food and many ornamental plants in our gardens do not have good nectar and pollen value. That's why it's important to offer the buzzing insects rich food sources from spring to late autumn. Their flowers should be open, i.e. unfilled. Also reserve a corner for native wildflowers.
